Providing Competent Care for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Patients

Healthcare disparities among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations are well-documented, often stemming from a lack of culturally competent care and systemic barriers within clinical environments. Providing Competent Care for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Patients is a targeted continuing education course designed to equip nurses and healthcare professionals with the knowledge, clinical sensitivity, and communication strategies necessary to deliver affirming and equitable care to LGBT individuals across all settings.

This course addresses the unique healthcare needs of LGBT patients, including increased risk for mental health disorders, substance use, HIV/STIs, and barriers to preventive services. It also examines implicit bias, ethical responsibilities, and legal protections relevant to sexual and gender minority populations. Emphasis is placed on respectful communication, inclusive documentation, and trauma-informed care. 

Upon completion, participants will earn 1 Continuing Education (CE) Credit Hour, automatically reported to CE Broker, while improving clinical competency in caring for this diverse and historically under-served population.

This program blends clinical insight with ethical practice standards to ensure nurses are prepared to meet the needs of LGBT patients with professionalism and compassion. Topics include:

• Health Disparities in LGBT Populations: Epidemiological overview of risk factors, comorbidity, and access challenges.
• Understanding Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI): Definitions, terminology, and clinical relevance for intake, documentation, and communication.
• Creating an Inclusive Clinical Environment: Strategies for establishing trust, privacy, and psychological safety for LGBT patients.
• Addressing Implicit Bias: Recognizing and mitigating unconscious attitudes that impact patient care and health outcomes.
• Legal and Ethical Considerations: Federal and state-level protections, informed consent, and nondiscrimination mandates.
• Best Practices in Communication and Documentation: Use of correct pronouns, chosen names, and respectful language across care teams.
• Case-Based Scenarios: Practical application of inclusive practices in common clinical encounters, including emergency, primary care, and mental health settings.

Course Completion Requirements:

• Register for the course.
• Thoroughly review all course content.
• Achieve a score of 70% or higher on the post-test.
• Complete the course evaluation survey.

Supplementary case studies or reflection exercises may be provided to support clinical integration.

Important Disclosures:

To receive full CE credit, participants must:

• Conflict of Interest: All planners and faculty members report no relevant financial relationships or conflicts of interest.
• Commercial Support: This course has not received commercial sponsorship or funding.
• Non-Endorsement: Course accreditation does not imply endorsement of any specific commercial products or services.
• Off-Label Use: This course does not discuss unapproved or off-label uses of medical products.

Supplementary case studies or reflection exercises may be provided to support clinical integration.